Winchester’s Maven Awards Celebrate Female Entrepreneurial Talent
The third annual Maven Awards, held on February 26th at The Nutshell in Winchester, recognized the achievements of 90 women in business. The event champions women-led businesses in Winchester and the surrounding region, fostering networking and celebrating success.
Celebrating Achievements Across Diverse Categories
The Maven Awards showcased talent across 12 categories, with an additional “Best Dressed” award. The evening included a reception with live jazz, hairstyling, close-up magic, and a glitter bar, culminating in an awards ceremony and afterparty.
2026 Maven Awards Winners
The following individuals and businesses were honored at the 2026 Maven Awards:
- Rising Maven (Sponsored by Camile Thai): Tamara Pratt, Thrive + Wild
- Eco Warrior Maven (Sponsored by Good Evans Kitchen): Melanie Lejette, Moon Moon
- Creative Maven (Sponsored by Studio U & K18): Jess Montgomery-Salter, Edis Media
- Wellness & Fitness Maven (Sponsored by Beyond): Emily Taylor, Taylored Physio
- Power House Maven (Sponsored by Zoe Palmer, Travel Counsellors): Diana Sillence, Dogs Trust
- Marketing Maven (Sponsored by Maven Media): Gemma Storey, Infinity Creative
- Maven in Tech: Heather King
- Community Maven (Sponsored by Joanne Sumner, Athena Network): Maddie Podstada
- Client Care Maven (Sponsored by Giuseppe Manco): Helen Moseley, New Energy Fitness
- Business Maven (Sponsored by Active Bystander): Kate Llewellyn, The Content Consultancy
- Inspirational Maven (Sponsored by Style Solutions by Sarah): Carla Saull, Good Wash Day
- Best Dressed Maven (Sponsored by Sulkydoll Styling): Laura Bateman, Ferry + Ferry
- Special Recognition Award: Louise Crockett, Defy Protection Coaching
The Nutshell: A Fitting Venue
Maven founder Natalie Hamer emphasized the significance of The Nutshell as the awards venue, noting its “warm energy” and the welcoming atmosphere it provides. The Nutshell, founded by Harriet Morris and Noël Jones, previously won the Community Maven Award at the inaugural ceremony in 2024.
Entertainment and Atmosphere
Guests enjoyed live jazz from Molly Amour and Nigel Price, refreshments from Candover Brook, hairstyling by Harry and the Studio U team, and magic from Tim Lichfield. Singer Rachel Chambers and DJ Perrell provided entertainment throughout the evening.
Looking Ahead
The Maven Awards continue to grow, providing a vital platform for celebrating the achievements of female entrepreneurs and women in business in Winchester. For more information, visit www.themavenawards.com.